Our Mission
Our Vision
Our Commitment
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers help transform lives! At The Salvation Army Community Services (Calgary), volunteers are integral to the work we do. Some help in our shelters or work with kids and youth, some help with food programs or with teaching skills to newcomers. We also rely on volunteers for special events throughout the year that help strengthen our community. Wherever our volunteers are helping, they impact the lives of Calgarians!
Behind The Shield
Behind the Shield is more than just a name. It is a collective philosophy of what it means to volunteer with The Salvation Army.
In times of despair everyone needs an army – that’s us. And for over a hundred years the driving force of that army has always been our volunteers who proudly stand with us Behind the Shield.
Behind the Shield is where compassionate volunteers of all walks of life and faith serve. It is where people find community and connection; where a smiling face brings hope and kindness to those who feel lost or forgotten and where lives are transformed through being understanding and through being understood.
By joining the Behind the Shield community, volunteers are committing to the belief no one should be alone in times of crisis – and they are ready to be there, without discrimination, for someone in need.
Behind The Shield means that together, we can give hope today.
Steps to Volunteer
Before we schedule you for your first shift, there are a few steps to go through:
- Upon indication of interest, Volunteer Services will connect you with the program facilitator to meet in person, see the facilities, and ask any questions you might have.
- We then proceed with our online trainings and onboarding documents.
- A Background Check and Intervention Record Check are done where applicable.
- Once all these items are complete, you are officially ready to volunteer!
**Please note we are unable to accommodate court-mandated or FINE option hours at our facilities.**
Sign up today!
Special Event Volunteer Opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I learn more about the volunteer program?
Please complete the volunteer application form and the Volunteer Services team will be in touch about next steps.
What is a Regular volunteer?
Regular volunteers are assigned to individual departments, bring specialized skills which can support the specific program, and volunteer on a consistent basis. Only regular volunteers are allowed to work directly with residents or clients, or in unsupervised settings. A thorough screening process is required for the position they fill. Regular volunteers may also participate in internal training opportunities when available.
What is a Casual volunteer?
Casual volunteers provide service for one-time, special and/or seasonal projects such as Christmas celebrations. Casual volunteers are not permitted to work directly one-on-one with clients or in unsupervised environments.
What is a Group volunteer?
Groups are communities, businesses, schools, post-secondary institutions or church groups that volunteer casually with Community Services Calgary. The Volunteer Coordinator will communicate with the group coordinators to find a suitable placement for the group. Groups can volunteer at special events, such a Coat Drives or Stampede Breakfasts, rake leaves at the West Campus, and more!
Am I able to complete court mandated community service hours or Fine Option hours at Community Services (Calgary)?
At this time, we do not have a Fine Options program or the ability for volunteers to complete court mandated community service hours.
Can I volunteer with a Criminal Record?
Where it is discovered that an applicant has a criminal record, the nature of the criminal record and the type of work being offered will be considered and a decision will be made. Please contact the Volunteer Services team for more information.
Am I eligible to volunteer without a valid Work/Student Permit?
Persons legally eligible to work/volunteer in Canada are Canadian citizens, permanent residents and holders of valid authorization, which allows them to work/volunteer for The Salvation Army in Canada. Foreign Nationals are required to submit a valid open Work Permit or Student Permit before they may volunteer. Those without proper work authorization may be able to volunteer at special events. Please contact the Volunteer Services team for more information.
If you are interested in other volunteer positions or have any questions, please contact our Volunteer Services Department:
Volunteer Services Contact Information:
Call (403) 410 – 1109
What our volunteers say about their experience
Where would you like to help transform lives? Apply today to join our Behind the Shield volunteer Community!